Australia’s burgeoning electric vehicle market is set for further disruption with the imminent arrival of the 2026 Leapmotor B05 electric hatchback. Orders for the new model opened on July 1, 2026, with showroom arrivals slated for late August. Priced from $35,990 drive-away, the B05 is poised to become Australia’s most affordable rear-wheel-drive (RWD) EV, intensifying competition in the entry-level segment.
The B05’s aggressive pricing and RWD configuration position it as a compelling alternative to established front-wheel-drive rivals such as the BYD Dolphin and MG 4. Its launch underscores the rapid expansion of affordable electric options for Australian consumers, driven largely by new entrants from China.
Pricing and Variants
The 2026 Leapmotor B05 will be available in two variants, both offering competitive specifications for their price point. The entry-level Style variant starts at $35,888 plus on-road costs, or $35,990 drive-away through a special launch offer valid until September 30, 2026. The higher-spec Design Long Range is priced at $39,888 plus on-road costs, or $39,990 drive-away during the same promotional period.
These drive-away prices represent a significant value proposition, placing the B05 squarely against petrol-powered hatches like the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3, while offering the lower running costs inherent to electric vehicles. For those considering the switch from an internal combustion engine, the financial incentives are becoming increasingly clear.
“The Leapmotor B05 is Australia’s cheapest rear-wheel-drive EV and for a little while at least, that’s a genuine talking point. Priced from $35,990 driveaway, it undercuts the MG 4 and lands close to petrol hatches like the Toyota Corolla.”
Key Specifications and Features
The Leapmotor B05 brings a robust set of features, including a standard heat pump for efficient cabin climate control and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality with a maximum output of 3.3kW, allowing owners to power external appliances.
The chassis tuning for the B05 was reportedly conducted in Italy, in collaboration with Stellantis, Leapmotor’s partner, suggesting a focus on driving dynamics for the RWD platform.
| Feature | B05 Style | B05 Design Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Drive-away) | from $35,990 AUD | from $39,990 AUD |
| Battery Capacity | 56.2 kWh LFP | 67.1 kWh LFP |
| WLTP Range | 401 km | 482 km |
| Power | 160 kW | 160 kW |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.5 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Max AC Charge | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| DC Charge (30-80%) | 16 minutes | 18 minutes |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Kerb Weight | 1700 kg | 1780 kg |
| Standard Features | 19-inch alloys, LED headlights, V2L, Heat Pump | Adds panoramic glass roof, ‘TechnoLeather’ upholstery, power-adjustable seats |
Expanding the Affordable EV Landscape
The arrival of the Leapmotor B05 is indicative of a broader trend in the Australian EV market: increasing affordability and choice. The first half of 2026 has seen a significant influx of new EV models, particularly from Chinese manufacturers, driving down entry prices and challenging established brands. This competitive environment benefits Australian consumers by making electric mobility more accessible.
The overall market shift towards electrification is undeniable. June 2026 saw battery electric vehicles account for 23.3 per cent of all new vehicle sales, marking the fifth consecutive month of record EV uptake. This surge, coupled with the introduction of models like the B05, provides more options for Australians looking to transition away from petrol. For a comprehensive overview of making the switch, consult our From Petrol to Plug: The Ultimate First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Switching to an EV in Australia 2026.
However, the title of “Australia’s cheapest EV” or “cheapest RWD EV” is a constantly shifting benchmark. While the B05 currently holds the latter, other models are on the horizon, with the Geely EX2 anticipated to launch in the coming weeks with an expected price below $30,000 AUD. This dynamic market ensures that consumers will continue to see more options and competitive pricing in the near future.
Optimising charging costs is also crucial for EV owners. Understanding electricity plans and home charging solutions can significantly reduce running expenses. Explore how to Slash EV Charging Costs by Up To $800/Year: Best Electricity Plans in Australia 2026 to maximise your savings.
As the Australian EV market matures, the focus remains on expanding charging infrastructure and ensuring seamless integration into daily life. The steady stream of new, affordable models like the Leapmotor B05 plays a critical role in accelerating this transition, offering practical and cost-effective alternatives for a growing number of drivers.